R.I. may ban trucks from state roads that allow them to avoid tolls

The president of the Rhode Island Trucking Association calls the ban "the next phase in the war against the trucking industry." (The Trucker file photo)

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Rhode Island transportation officials are considering a proposal barring tractor-trailers from driving many of the state roads that allow them to avoid tolls.

WPRI-TV (http://bit.ly/2x7tGQJ ) reports that the Rhode Island Department of Transportation made the proposal and the State Traffic Commission is considering it Thursday.

An agency spokeswoman says the road restrictions will make sure commercial trucks stay on interstates that are designed for their weight. A review of the proposal found most of the 15 routes listed allow truck drivers to avoid the toll locations proposed in Gov. Gina Raimondo's RhodeWorks bill.

The president of the Rhode Island Trucking Association calls the ban "the next phase in the war against the trucking industry."